What is a reservoir?

A reservoir is a man-made or natural body of water that is used to store and supply water for various purposes, such as drinking water, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. Reservoirs are typically created by constructing dams across rivers or streams to impound water and create a large, stable water supply.

A reservoir is a natural or artificial lake, pond, or underground aquifer that stores water. Reservoirs are used to provide water for drinking, irrigation, hydropower, and other purposes. They can also be used to control flooding and provide recreation opportunities.

Natural reservoirs are formed when a river or stream is dammed, either by a natural barrier such as a landslide or by a human-made structure such as a dam. Artificial reservoirs are created by excavating a hole in the ground and lining it with a waterproof material such as concrete or clay.

Reservoirs can vary in size from small ponds to large lakes. The largest reservoir in the world is the Three Gorges Dam in China, which has a surface area of over 1000 square miles.

Reservoirs are an important part of water management systems. They provide a reliable source of water during dry periods and help to prevent flooding during wet periods. Reservoirs also provide opportunities for recreation, such as fishing, boating, and swimming.